Live at the Sphere: An Unforgettable Dead & Co. Performance

Deadhead Cannabis Show

Remembering Bill Walton: Basketball Star and Grateful Dead Superfan

In this episode of the Deadhead Cannabis Show, Larry Mishkin covers various topics, including a historic Grateful Dead show, personal concert experiences, and music news. Larry starts with a deep dive into the Grateful Dead's June 3, 1976, concert at the Paramount Theater in Portland, Oregon. This show marked the band's return after a year-long hiatus, featuring five new songs and a revived tune from a four-year break. He highlights the opening track, written by Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter, which nostalgically reflects on the band's Festival Express tour, a legendary 1970 train journey across Canada with prominent rock bands.

Larry then discusses the song "Lazy Lightning," introduced at the same 1976 concert. Written by Bobby and John Perry Barlow, it became a fan favorite for its melody and message of living in the moment, though it was retired from the Grateful Dead's repertoire by 1984. He transitions into music news by honoring Doug Ingle of Iron Butterfly, who recently passed away. Larry reminisces about the band's iconic 1968 track "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" and its influence on the late 60s music scene.

The podcast also pays tribute to Bill Walton, the legendary basketball player and devoted Deadhead who passed away at 71.

Larry shares stories of Walton's deep connection with the Grateful Dead, including his record of attending 869 concerts, significantly more than his total basketball games played. Larry recounts Walton's influence on fellow athletes and his unique presence at Dead shows.

Finally, Larry describes his recent experience at a Dead & Company concert at the Sphere in Las Vegas. He marvels at the venue's immersive visual technology, which enhanced the concert experience, likening it to a planetarium. Despite the advanced visuals sometimes overshadowing the music, Larry enjoyed the performance and the unique atmosphere. He also mentions a mini-exhibition featuring Dave Lemieux's tape collection and the significance of tape trading in Grateful Dead fandom.

In summary, this episode covers a blend of Grateful Dead history, personal concert experiences, tributes to influential music figures, and the latest in concert technology, providing a rich narrative for Deadheads and music enthusiasts alike.

Grateful Dead

June 3, 1976 (48 Years Ago)

Paramount Theater

Portland, OR

Grateful Dead Live at Paramount Theatre on 1976-06-03 : Free Borrow & Streaming : Internet Archive

First show back after 1975 year off

Prior show: Sept. 28, 1975 – last of the four shows in 1975, this show is 9 months later. Long wait for Deadheads.

Dead did not disappoint with five new songs and a breakout after a 4 year hiatus.

INTRO: Might As Well

Track #1

1:15 – 2:50

“Take that ride again”

Might as Well” is a song written by Jerry Garcia with lyrics penned by Robert Hunter. Released on Garcia’s 3d solo album, Reflections, in February, 1976. It’s one of the tracks from Garcia’s solo career, showcasing his musical versatility and unique ability to transform personal experiences into joyful music. The song takes a nostalgic look back at the Grateful Dead’s time on the Festival Express Tour, a memorable rail trip that brought together prominent artists of the '60s for a raucous, whisky-fueled journey across America.

Festival Express is the 1970 train tour of the same name across Canada taken by some of North America's most popular rock bands, including Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, The Band, Buddy Guy, Flying Burrito Bros, Ian & Sylvia's Great Speckled Bird, Mountain and Delaney & Bonnie & Friends. Later made into a movie

Festival Express was staged in three Canadian cities: Toronto, Winnipeg, and Calgary (Montreal and Vancouver were also originally scheduled but both dropped) during the summer of 1970. Rather than flying into each city, the musicians traveled by chartered Canadian National Railwaystrain, in a total of 14 cars (two engines, one diner, five sleepers, two lounge cars, two flat cars, one baggage car, and one staff car).[5] The train journey between cities ultimately became a combination of non-stop jam sessions and partying fueled by alcohol. One highlight of the documentary is a drunken jam session featuring The Band's Rick Danko, the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia and Bob Weir, New Riders of the Purple Sage's John Dawson, as well as Janis Joplin.

Here, it is played as the show opener. Ultimately, became more of a first set closer, a popular one along with Deal, another Garcia solo tune.

Played 111 times

First: June 3, 1976 at Paramount Theatre, Portland, OR, USA THIS SHOW 19 times that year

Last: March 23, 1994 at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale, NY, USA – only time played that year, 6 times in ‘91

SHOW No. 1: Lazy Lightning

Track #6

0:00 – 1:46

Written by Bobby and John Perry Barlow, paired with Supplication in concert and released with Supplication as the opening tracks on the album, Kingfish, released in March, 1976.

Lazy Lightning is often interpreted as a metaphorical representation of the pursuit of a carefree and leisurely lifestyle amidst the chaos and hardships of reality. The lyrics depict a whimsical scenario where the protagonist encounters a bolt of lightning that transforms into a woman, symbolizing the allure and transitory nature of fleeting pleasures. The song encourages listeners to embrace the present moment and let go of the rigid expectations and responsibilities that burden their lives. It is a celebration of spontaneity, freedom, and the pursuit of personal bliss.

Lazy Lightning became a fan favorite due to its infectious melody, poetic lyrics, and the sense of liberation it evoked. Grateful Dead fans often resonated with the song’s message of embracing the present moment and shedding societal expectations. It became a rallying cry for those seeking to live life on their own terms, igniting a sense of camaraderie and freedom among concert-goers.

Usually, a late first set number. Unfortunately, dropped from the repertoire in 1984. I got to hear it three or four times. A fun number.

Played: also played 111 times

First: June 3, 1976 at Paramount Theatre, Portland, OR, USA THIS SHOW!!

Last: October 31, 1984 at Berkeley Community Theatre, Berkeley, CA, USA

MUSIC NEWS – Intro music: In A Gadda Da Vida: IRON BUTTERFLY - IN A GADDA DA VIDA - 1968 (ORIGINAL FULL VERSION) CD SOUND & 3D VIDEO (youtube.com)

Start - :45

is a song recorded by Iron Butterfly, written by band member Doug Ingle and released on their 1968 album of the same name.

At slightly over 17 minutes, it occupies the entire second side of the album. The lyrics, a love song from the biblical Adam to his mate Eve, are simple and are heard only at the beginning and the end. The middle of the song features a two-and-a-half-minute Ron Bushy drum solo. Famously featured on a Simpson’s episode when Bart switches the organist’s regular music for this tune and hands out the words to the congregation who sing along. The older organ player plays the entire organ solo (although they only feature a part of it) and then at the end promptly slumps over at the keyboard.

1. Featured today as a tribute to Doug Ingle, songwriter, keyboard player and vocalist for the song, who passed away on May 24th at the age of 78. He was the last surviving member of the original band lineup.
2. Bill Walton passed away on last Monday, May 27th at the all too young age of 71. Couldn’t miss him at the shows, 7 foot redhead dancing away or else up on stage.
3. Dead & Co. at the Sphere, saw the June 1st show.

SHOW No. 2: Supplication

Track #7

2:00 – 3:30

Written by Bobby and John Perry Barlow, paired with Lazy Lightning in concert and released with Lazy Lightning as the opening tracks on the album, Kingfish, released in March, 1976.

The song delves into the universal theme of the human experience, specifically emphasizing the concept of surrender and humility. It explores the idea of surrendering oneself to a higher power, relinquishing control, and embracing the unknown. The lyrics touch upon the vulnerability and humility required to let go and trust in something beyond our comprehension. Supplication encourages listeners to reflect upon their own lives, urging them to question their beliefs, values, and the significance of surrendering to a greater force.

Played: 111 times (a good number for the lottery, keeps coming up), always paired with Lazy Lightning

First: June 3, 1976 at Paramount Theatre, Portland, OR, USA THIS SHOW!!

Last: October 31, 1984 at Berkeley Community Theatre, Berkeley, CA, USA

SHOW No. 3: Dancin In the Streets

Track #11

0:00 – 1:42

"Dancing in the Street" is a song written by Marvin Gaye, William Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter. It first became popular in 1964 when recorded by Martha and the Vandellas whose version was released on July 31, 1964 and reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks, behind "Do Wah Diddy Diddy" by Manfred Mann and it also peaked at No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. It is one of Motown's signature songs and is the group's premier signature song.

A 1966 cover by the Mamas & the Papas was a minor hit on the Hot 100 reaching No. 73. In 1982, the rock group Van Halen took their cover of "Dancing in the Street" to No. 38 on the Hot 100 chart and No. 15 in Canada on the RPM chart. A 1985 duet cover by David Bowie and Mick Jagger charted at No. 1 in the UK and reached No. 7 in the US. The song has been covered by many other artists, including The Kinks, Tages, Black Oak Arkansas, Grateful Dead, Little Richard, Myra and Karen Carpenter.

I saw it as the first night show opener on June 14, 1985 at the Greek Theater as part of the band’s 20 Anniversary celebration. A really fun concert tune. The 1970’s versions always had strong Donna support backing up Bobby’s lead vocals.

This show was the first time the band had played the song since Dec. 31, 1971 (203 shows)

Played: 131 times

First: July 3, 1966 at Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco, CA, USA

Last: April 6, 1987 at Brendan Byrne Arena, East Rutherford, NJ, USA

MJ NEWS

1. Blake Schneider passed away May 27th at 69. Legendary cultivator who created the best strain of marijuana I ever smoked. We just called it Blake weed and put it up against any other strain, anywhere, any time. Folks would say they had the best weed until I let them smoke some of the Blake weed. They never failed to concede. Eccentric, temperamental, hospitable, mentor and good friend. And self titled “best joint roller in the worlds.” Was one of my Bulls season ticket partners during the Jordan era. Every home game began with a pregame at Blake’s loop residences including great wines, gourmet appetizers and snacks, top shelf liquor (on the way out the door we always did our “Go Bulls” shots) and more marijuana than anyone should ever smoke. With four of us in the room, he would have 3 joints circulating at all times. With his ever present life partner, Jeanne, an evening at Blakes was as much fun as the actual game itself. Ran into a problem with the Green County Sheriff, but gave them the finger when the feds took the case over and Blake only had to serve 11 months at a fed minimum risk prison instead of the 20 years that Green County said was a done deal given the number of plants he was growing at his farm house in Argyle, WI. They were not happy campers when the feds moved in to take over the case due to the value of the property they could sieve and force Blake to buy back from them. Blake was a true party legend and will be sorely missed by those of us that knew him, loved him and tolerated him.

2. Marijuana Terpenes Are ‘As Effective As Morphine’ For Pain Relief And Have Fewer Side Effects, New Study Finds

3. CBD Is Effective In Treating Anxiety, Depression And Poor Sleep, Study Finds

4. Marijuana And Hemp Businesses At Odds Over Consumable Cannabinoid Ban In House Farm Bill

SHOW No. 4: Samson and Delilah

Track #12

0:00 – 1:45

"Samson and Delilah" is a traditional song based on the Biblical tale of Samson and his betrayal by Delilah. Its best known performer is perhaps the Grateful Dead, who first performed the song live in 1976, with Bobby singing lead vocals and in the ‘70’s with Donna joining in. It was frequently played on Sundays due to the biblical reference. Released by the band in 1977 on their album Terrapin Station.

Although Weir learned the song from Reverend Gary Davis, several earlier versions had been recorded under various titles, including "If I Had My Way I'd Tear the Building Down"/"Oh Lord If I Had My Way" by Blind Willie Johnson in 1927.[1] The song has since been performed by a wide variety of artists ranging from Dave van Ronk, Bob Dylan, Charlie Parr, The Staple Singers, Ike and Tina Turner, Clara Ward, Dorothy Love Coates & The Gospel Harmonettes, to Peter, Paul and Mary, The Washington Squares, The Blasters, Willie Watson, Elizabeth Cook, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, and Bruce Springsteen and the Seeger Sessions Band (in Verona, Italy 2006).

Guest star Simon Oakland sings the song with the drovers around a campfire in the Rawhide episode "Incident of the Travellin' Man", aired in season six on October 17, 1963.

A long time favorite tune with a distinctive drummers intro that tipped off the song and got the crowd fired up.

Settled into a set opener, more frequently a second set opener and often played on Sundays due to its biblical reference with Bobby’s “This being Sunday . .”

Played: 365 times

First: June 3, 1976 at Paramount Theatre, Portland, OR, USA THIS SHOW

Last: July 9, 1995 at Soldier Field

OUTRO: The Wheel

Track #22

2:48 – 4:30

One of their most beloved songs, “The Wheel,” holds a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide. Written by Jerry Garcia, Robert Hunter, and Bill Kreutzmann, this folk-rock anthem has captivated listeners with its enigmatic lyrics and catchy melody. The song’s meaning has been widely debated among enthusiasts, and its cryptic nature has allowed for multiple interpretations.

“The Wheel” reflects the transient nature of life, offering a philosophical perspective on the cycles we all experience. The lyrics suggest that life is like a wheel, constantly turning and repeating itself. The song evokes a sense of impermanence and reminds us of the cyclical patterns we encounter throughout our existence. This theme resonates strongly with the band’s philosophy and their connection to the spiritual and psychedelic culture of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

“The Wheel” was released on the Grateful Dead’s album “Garcia” in 1972.

“The Wheel” is characterized by its infectious melody and intricate guitar work. The song showcases the Grateful Dead’s ability to seamlessly blend folk, rock, and improvisational elements into a cohesive piece of music.

Normally, a second set tune, into or out of drums/space although it moved around a bit in the second set. Here it is the encore which is more of a rarity.

Played 259 times

First: June 3, 1976 at Paramount Theatre, Portland, OR, USA THIS SHOW

Last: May 25, 1995 at Memorial Stadium, Seattle, WA

.Produced by PodConx

Deadhead Cannabis Show - https://podconx.com/podcasts/deadhead-cannabis-show

Larry Mishkin - https://podconx.com/guests/larry-mishkin

Rob Hunt - https://podconx.com/guests/rob-hunt

Jay Blakesberg - https://podconx.com/guests/jay-blakesberg

Sound Designed by Jamie Humiston - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-humiston-91718b1b3/

Recorded on Squadcast